While there are many individuals who file joint taxes with their spouses, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they are always fully aware of every detail of the process. If one’s spouse or former spouse fails to accurately report information or claims improper deductions, both parties could be left facing devastating tax fees and penalties, even if a person was unaware of what happened. Individuals in Georgia who face tax debts under similar scenarios may be eligible for innocent spouse relief but knowing how to pursue relief via similar paths can be a complex process.
Qualifying for relief
Innocent spouse relief is a program that could help provide relief to those who incur tax debts when a spouse or ex-spouse fails to accurately report income or files for improper deductions. Experts indicate that there are rules that govern who can qualify for this program. Innocent spouse relief may only be available to those who file joint taxes with another person, and one may be required to prove that the other party is responsible for tax errors and that one had no part in these errors.
Experts indicate that a person may only have up to two years to file for innocent spouse relief. While a person may bear the task of providing evidence of compelling circumstances to qualify for this relief, if approved, it could help protect a person against liability for penalties and fees that stem from tax errors. Filing for innocent spouse relief can be complex and those weighing the possibility of taking a similar path might benefit from seeking advice in preparing for the process.
Relief from tax debts
Facing overwhelming tax debts due to the errors of another party can be a daunting process. Individuals in Georgia who struggle under the weight of such debts may have questions about all their available options for relief, but they might not know where to turn for advice in addressing their situations. Fortunately, there are attorneys who can provide a person with guidance in evaluating the available options and assist in choosing a path for tax debt relief that best fits his or her needs.